Two Dead, Two Missing After Marine Collision Off Anse Cochon

Amid the revelry of Carnival weekend, tragedy unfolded off the shores of Anse Cochon leaving two young Saint Lucians dead, several injured and families awaiting answers.

The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) confirmed that a marine collision occurred shortly before midnight on Saturday, July 18, 2026 when the Police Marine Unit responded to reports of a collision involving the vessels Ocean Angel and Mango Tours.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Mango Tours was travelling southward while Ocean Angel was proceeding towards the northern part of the island when the vessels collided.

The impact proved devastating. Authorities noted that Mango Tours sank following the collision, while Ocean Angel sustained damage, with a section of the vessel later recovered.

Two young women were confirmed dead — 21-year-old Mhakeida Nestor of La Fargue, Choiseul, and 25-year-old Debbie Dolor of Market Road, Soufriere.

Fourteen individuals were also injured in the incident and subsequently received medical care.

Emergency personnel have continued efforts to locate the two people who have been reported missing. Personnel of the Police Marine Unit commenced a search of the waters around Anse Cochon and its environs for the two individuals on Monday, July 20, 2026. Despite the search spanning approximately two nautical miles west of Anse Cochon, south to Canaries Bay, and north to Anse La Raye, the search proved futile in sighting either of the persons reported missing.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves across communities, with Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre amongst the immense outpouring of condolences to the families and loved ones of those who perished in the marine collision.

In a statement on the matter, he shared that “it is with profound sadness that [he] learned of the tragic marine collision at Anse Cochon,” and further extended “[his] deepest condolences” to the families of Mhakeida Nestor and Debbie Dolor. Notwithstanding, he expressed that “thoughts are also with those who have been injured” in wishing them a speedy recovery and also acknowledged the plight of the families still anxiously awaiting news of those still lost at sea.

Pierre also commended the efforts of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, the Saint Lucia Fire Service, the Coast Guard, medical personnel and others involved in the emergency response noting that “their professionalism, courage and dedication under extremely difficult circumstances are deeply appreciated.”

As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the collision, authorities have pledged to provide additional information as details are verified. The RSLPF has confirmed that search and rescue operations remain active.